In the apartment set aside for them, Jaden stood looking out the window while Gavel and Pippen were studying the grand piano in the corner of the parlor. Krogh was sharpening his serrated Iklwa standing against the wall looking like a caged animal. When a knock came Jaden answered.
“Mistress Clara, please come in.” He motioned for her to enter but she stood fast.
“I would Lord Jaden but I have things to attend to. Lady Lilly wishes me to tell you that she will be in the gardens after supper tonight and wishes for you to join her.”
He grinned. “Does she, well how can I refuse?” He bowed his head catching the amused smile of the older woman.
“I will let her know, you will attend.” Clara snickered as she walked away.
When he closed the door Gavel and Pippen were looking at him. “So is this Lady Lilly, the lovely creature that welcomed us on the veranda?” Pippen asked smiling smugly.
Gavel then spoke up. “Had I known she was your woman..”
“She isn’t a woman, she’s just a girl.” He snapped interrupting the Rizel’s insinuation. “I told you she is my best friend’s daughter…nothing more.” He made sure his tone broke no more on the subject.
She sat on the edge of the large fountain with stone horses bursting up from the center and having streams of water cascading out of their mouths. Her fingers trailed gently along the water’s surface while little golden fish came up to her. She hadn’t realized how much she had missed him. It felt like so long even though it was only a couple of weeks. She pulled out the small figurine Rak had carved for her and sighed.
